Tell Me a Story - Bill Petersen

In this episode of Tell Me a Story, host Ben Fraser talks with Dr. Bill Peterson, a retired pediatric anesthesiologist whose life has been marked by medicine, family, and resilience. Born in Milwaukee while his father served overseas in World War II, Bill grew up in Illinois before pursuing medical training that took him across the country—from Chicago to Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Salt Lake City, and finally Virginia Beach. He shares stories of raising four children (and now twelve grandchildren), navigating the challenges of medicine, and facing the harrowing moments of pediatric anesthesiology. Bill also opens up about a house fire that tested his family’s strength, his love of travel, and the humorous, sometimes perilous adventures of youth. With warmth and candor, Bill reflects on a life of service, perseverance, and the joys of family.